What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic condition of the large intestine (colon), which causes abdominal cramping and bloating, as well as a change in the pattern of movement of the intestinal lumen, and can affect anyone of any age. Its symptoms also differ among those infected and it is classified as a functional disorder of the digestive system. Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder affecting the stomach and intestines, collectively known as the gastrointestinal tract.
Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms
The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome vary from person to person, but usually last for a long time as it is a chronic condition. The most common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain, cramping or bloating related to bowel movements.
- Changes in the form and frequency of bowel movements
- Abdominal cramps and pain.
- Loss of appetite and feeling of fullness.
Only a small percentage of people with IBS develop severe symptoms. Some people manage their symptoms by following a balanced diet and lifestyle and avoiding stress. More severe symptoms can be treated with medication and medical advice.
Causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome vary between direct and indirect causes. We find, for example, that digestive system problems are one of the direct causes of colon pain, while anxiety and stress act as indirect causes of its disorders. Irritable Bowel Syndrome causes distress in the lives of many, especially when it comes to avoiding certain types of food and drink, which can take away from their happiness during get-togethers with friends. There are no specific causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, but there are some factors that increase the risk of infection:
- The movement of food in the bowel, if it moves at a slower or faster rate than normal.
- Nerves in the stomach are very sensitive.
- Stress and severe anxiety.
- Family history, as genetics may be one of the causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
- Infection of the stomach or digestive system with a bacterial infection.
Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome were diagnosed in the past in a way that required the patient to undergo many tests before an Irritable Bowel Syndrome diagnosis was made. Over the past decade, indicators that help diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome, called the Rome Indicators, have been published based on which Irritable Bowel Syndrome is diagnosed.
The Rome Standards are a set of criteria that doctors use to classify the diagnosis of a patient with a functional gastrointestinal disorder (a disorder of the gut-brain interaction). The Rome Standards occur every 6-10 years.
Irritable bowel syndrome
Treating functional bowel diseases is a complex and complicated task, as there is no single mechanism that causes irritable bowel syndrome, nor is there a single magic bullet.
